What conditions, other than Protein-Losing Enteropathy (PLE), cause increased fecal Alpha-1 Antitrypsin (A1AT) clearance?

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Last updated: May 8, 2025View editorial policy

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Differential Diagnosis for Increased Fecal A1AT Clearance

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Gastrointestinal bleeding: This condition can lead to an increase in fecal A1AT clearance due to the presence of blood in the gastrointestinal tract, which can cause an increase in the clearance of A1AT from the blood into the feces.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Conditions such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis can cause inflammation and damage to the gastrointestinal tract, leading to increased permeability and clearance of A1AT.
  • Celiac disease: This autoimmune disorder can cause damage to the small intestine, leading to malabsorption and increased clearance of A1AT.
  • Gastrointestinal infections: Certain infections, such as those caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites, can cause inflammation and damage to the gastrointestinal tract, leading to increased A1AT clearance.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Gastrointestinal lymphoma: This type of cancer can cause damage to the gastrointestinal tract and lead to increased A1AT clearance. Although it is less common, it is a potentially life-threatening condition that should not be missed.
  • Gastrointestinal ischemia: This condition, which occurs when there is a lack of blood flow to the gastrointestinal tract, can cause damage and lead to increased A1AT clearance. It is a medical emergency that requires prompt attention.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Ehlers-Danlos syndrome: This genetic disorder can cause damage to the connective tissue in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to increased permeability and clearance of A1AT.
  • Intestinal lymphangiectasia: This rare condition is characterized by dilation of the lymphatic vessels in the small intestine, which can lead to increased clearance of A1AT.
  • Whipple's disease: This rare bacterial infection can cause damage to the small intestine and lead to malabsorption and increased A1AT clearance.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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